The world in which we live is shaken and distorted because men and nations have built on false foundations. At this time when matter's claim to power is demanding our attention, "we must look where we would walk, and we must act as possessing all power from Him in whom we have our being" (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy, p. 264).
Our greatest need is stated by Mrs. Eddy thus (ibid., p. 4): "What we most need is the prayer of fervent desire for growth in grace, expressed in patience, meekness, love, and good deeds." This injunction is of primary importance. Note that our Leader has said, "What we most need is the prayer of fervent desire for growth in grace;" and then she proceeds to tell us that this grace which is essential must be "expressed in patience, meekness, love, and good deeds."
Our Leader further emphasizes the importance of grace in her spiritual interpretation of the Lord's Prayer. There, "Give us this day our daily bread," is spiritually interpreted thus: "Give us grace for to-day; feed the famished affections" (ibid., p. 17). Grace is the quality which we daily need, the food which will "feed the famished affections." Webster defines "grace" as "a virtue or moral excellence regarded as coming from God; . . . the graces of self-denial, humility, love."
